Dubai: The late Lieutenant General Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, former Deputy Chairman of Police and Public Security in Dubai, Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and Chairman of Al Wasl Sports Club, played a prominent role across key chapters of the UAE’s national and sporting development.His decades-long career spanned military and security service, institutional development, support for sport and emerging talent, as well as charitable and humanitarian initiatives. Known for his humility, closeness to the community and commitment to charitable causes, his humanitarian work was a natural extension of his long record of public service.Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the founder of modern Dubai, and the younger brother of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.Military and national serviceSheikh Ahmed received his military education at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom before returning to Dubai and joining the Central Military Command.He rose through the ranks to eventually assume command of the base. During his leadership, it underwent significant development, strengthening its position and role within the UAE’s military establishment.National, military and security responsibilities formed a central part of Sheikh Ahmed’s career. His name became closely associated with serving the country, developing institutions and strengthening their capabilities.He later served as Deputy Chairman of Police and Public Security in Dubai, building on his extensive experience in public service. Throughout these roles, his work centred on serving the nation, supporting its institutions and reinforcing security and stability.A lifelong association with Al WaslAlongside his national service, Sheikh Ahmed became one of the most prominent figures in Dubai and the UAE’s sporting landscape, with Al Wasl Sports Club occupying a particularly important place in his life.His relationship with the club dated back to its earliest years, when it was known as Al Zamalek. He was associated with the club first as a player and later as a leader and supporter, before becoming its chairman and forming its first board of directors in 1962.From then on, Sheikh Ahmed became one of the names most closely associated with Al Wasl’s history. His leadership and support continued for decades as the institution expanded, developed a large fan
